How to dress for different dance classes

November 3, 2015

Every style of dance has a dress code and while most classes are fairly relaxed, you still need to buy activity-specific clothes for most kinds of dance. They don't have to be expensive, but they do have to fit well and allow you to move easily.

How to dress for different dance classes

Ballet

  • Most adult classes require a leotard.
  • If you want some more layers, start with basic additional pieces for ballet such as legwarmers and a dance skirt.
  • You can also add a fitted sweater.
  • Most instructors will allow fitted tops, leggings, or pants; however, it's a good idea to ask first.

Modern

  • Yoga pants and tank tops or sports bra tops are the standard way to go.
  • Hoodies and long sleeve shirts make good cover-ups.
  • You'll end up barefoot, but you might want to warm up in socks.

Hip Hop

  • Baggier clothes are often the rule.
  • Sweatpants are okay, as long as they aren't too heavy.
  • Wear shoes with some flexibility.
  • Dance sneakers are the best, but some cross training shoes work almost as well.
  • You can layer tops for warmth.

Ballroom

  • You can practice in simple exercise clothes, but if you do certain kinds of ballroom dance, you'll want to make sure you have a skirt to practice with.
  • You can find them online through dancewear stores.

Zumba

  • This is the most relaxed dance dress code. Everything from gym attire to cargo pants and all kinds of tops will usually be acceptable .
  • Just make sure you can move freely in whatever you pick and that it's not too hot.
  • Sneakers make great footwear for Zumba.

For most dance classes, you probably already have the basics in your closet and if not, you don't have to spend a fortune to be comfortable.

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